Dev Diwali, also known as Dev Deepavali, is a significant Hindu festival celebrating the victory of Lord Shiva over the demon Tripurasur. Celebrated on Kartik Purnima, this year it falls on November 15, 2024, and is especially grand in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Learn about the significance, rituals, and why Varanasi is the heart of this luminous festival.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism showcased its rich cultural heritage, spiritual sites, and modern advancements at the World Travel Market London 2024, drawing in global travelers and securing its position as a leading destination for spiritual, heritage, and experiential travel in India.
Antara Cruises has inaugurated its new spiritual and cultural river cruises on the Ganga River, departing from Varanasi. The MV Bengal Ganga offers travelers a unique experience exploring the rich heritage of Varanasi and its surrounding regions, with itineraries that blend ancient rituals, temples, and sacred stories with the tranquil beauty of the river. The cruise features luxurious suites, delicious vegetarian meals, and a range of activities, providing a holistic and unforgettable journey along the Ganges.
The Shankaracharya of Kanchi Kama Koti Peetha, Sri Shankar Vijayendra Saraswati Swami, has lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government, praising their work and coining a new acronym for NDA – ‘Narendra Damodar Das ka Anushasan’ (discipline of Narendra Damodar Das). His comments were made during the inauguration of the RJ Sankara Eye Hospital in Varanasi, which was also inaugurated by PM Modi. The Shankaracharya highlighted the NDA government’s efforts for the welfare of the people and praised PM Modi’s leadership qualities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for 23 development projects valued at ₹6,700 crore in his parliamentary constituency, Varanasi, on Sunday, October 20. These projects cover a wide range of sectors, aiming to improve infrastructure and provide better services to the people of Varanasi. PM Modi also inaugurated the RJ Sankara eye hospital, highlighting its significance in providing quality eye care to the local community.
Stay informed with our comprehensive coverage of the most significant events in India today, including the Congress’s first candidate list for the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Varanasi, and other key developments across the nation.
The Intrepid Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Intrepid Travel, has launched the ‘Holy City Rickshaws’ initiative in Varanasi, India. This program aims to promote sustainable tourism by empowering local women through the operation of eco-friendly e-rickshaws, contributing to both economic and environmental well-being.
Uttar Pradesh witnessed a phenomenal rise in tourism during the first half of 2024, with Ayodhya recording a record-breaking 11 crore visitors, including 2,851 international travelers. The state’s overall tourist count reached 33 crore, solidifying its position as a global tourism destination. This surge is attributed to various factors, including the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya and ongoing efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure and facilities.
Varanasi’s rise as a top religious and tourist destination in Purvanchal has triggered a ripple effect, drawing visitors to nearby districts like Vindhyachal, Mirzapur, Sitamarhi, and Sonbhadra. The government’s focus on tourism development, including infrastructure improvements and connectivity enhancements, has played a crucial role in this surge, transforming the region into a hub for spiritual and cultural experiences.
Uttar Pradesh is set to enhance religious tourism by introducing electric boats in Ayodhya and Varanasi. This initiative provides a sustainable and enjoyable way to explore these culturally significant cities while offering unique experiences on the Saryu and Ganga rivers.
